SafeKids plans bike helmet giveaway in Clermont

Safe Kids Gainesville/Hall County will host a bike helmet giveaway for kids ages 5-10 from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday at the Hall County Sheriff’s Office North Precinct in Clermont.

The event, at 122 Dean St., is being conducted in partnership with the Hall County Sheriff’s Office and Kohl’sCares in Flowery Branch.

Children must be present to receive a bike helmet to ensure proper fit. Helmets will be given away on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

“Helmet use is the single most effective way to reduce bicycle-related fatalities. Helmets reduce the risk of head injury by at least 45 percent, brain injury by 33 percent, facial injury by 27 percent and fatal injury by 29 percent.

One study suggests that helmet use can reduce the risk of head injury by 85 percent and severe brain injury by 88 percent,” said Kimberly Martin, coalition coordinator.

Expired, unused and unwanted medications also will be collected, and residents who drop off medications will receive a free medication lock box. The boxes will be given out while supplies last, with a limit of one per household.

Expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs and over-the-counter solid medications will be accepted. Intravenous solutions and hypodermic needles will not be accepted.

All medications will be disposed of safely and properly by law enforcement officers. The service is free and confidential.